best way to mod ps2 slim and cheapest

Is it better to use a mod chip like a magic vx version or to just get a flip top and swap magic software.....how about getting a premoded ps2. I know is more expensive, but might be worth it....etc... any help greatly appriciated........

CHEAPest way to mod the slim is to buy SMD v3.3 and use the tape mod. The Best way is debatable. I personally think the tape mod works perfectly. Because i never need to boot up a recognized swap.
Many would probably say that the 'Slimtool' is the best mod for the slim.

"You get what you pay for"
There is never such a thing as THE BEST for cheap.
The same goes for cars, there is no such thing as cheap horsepower.
It all depends on what you want to do with it. If you just want to play backups then yeah a swap magic would work but if you want to do more then you would have to spend the money on a descent solder chip such as the DMS4 or and others(matrix infinity, others i could name as well)